The Best Hotels in Chiang Mai
Discover Chiang Mai's finest hotels—luxury stays in the heart of Northern Thailand
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Chiang Mai is the jewel in the crown of Northern Thailand. Temples covered in gold, a labyrinth of night markets and prime position in the foothills of Doi Inthanon National Park make this a must-stop on any Thailand itinerary. For those seeking comfort and style, Chiang Mai has this in abundance – in these forested northern reaches of the country, you’ll find lush, spa-like retreats, surrounded by nature yet just a short trip to the heart of the action. We’ve chosen these hotels based on their exceptional quality, unparalleled service, design and unique charm. Here’s our guide to the 10 best hotels in Chiang Mai.
1. Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
Perched along the Mae Rim River, the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is a masterpiece of Thai design. This sprawling resort blends traditional Lanna-style buildings with contemporary luxury, with spacious bungalows set amidst lush rice paddies and tropical gardens. Original Siamese art adorns the walls, with rooms furnished in dark teak and soft linens. Enjoy your morning coffee on a plush sofa on your terrace, watching the sunrise over the rainforest that surrounds you. Unwind with on-site yoga classes and holistic spa treatments, or hire a bicycle and explore the winding lanes around the resort. The city of Chiang Mai is 1 hour away, with a free shuttle offered. This is Four Seasons understated luxury at its best, cocooned in the heart of the jungle.
2. 137 Pillars House
Steeped in history and set within a beautifully restored teakwood mansion, 137 Pillars House is a boutique hotel located just a short walk from Chiang Mai’s Old City. This is an intimate retreat that offers only a handful of suites and villas, each meticulously designed with parquet flooring, roll-top baths and intricate tiling. Sleek and contemporary, the suites offer everything you need to relax after a day of exploring Chiang Mai. Enjoy their Signature Rituals Massage in their wellness spa, before enjoying marinated snow fish, wagyu pad ka prao (double cooked wagyu cheeks, chilli, hot basil and beef crackling) or roasted duck in their intimate eatery Palette. Don’t forget to dip in the beautiful pool, backed by a huge living wall dripping in lush greenery. This is a place where the blend of contemporary luxury and heritage charm has been perfected.
3. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
Situated on the banks of the Mae Ping River, the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is only a 10 minute drive from the Old Town, yet feels in a world of its own. The resort’s sleek design is accented with hand-carved wooden details and water features. Their acclaimed restaurant 1921 House is housed in the old British consulate, and with their extensive spa menu, including 3 day retreats, access to luxury cruises on the river, cooking classes and Muay Thai lessons, you’d be forgiven for not leaving the hotel grounds. Although, you really should. Anantara can arrange personalised itineraries to visit artisan villages, ancient temples and tea plantations in the cool mountains. Its prime location and impeccable service, expected with any Anantara resort, will have you booking your return flight before you’ve even left.
4. Tamarind Village
Located within the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old City, Tamarind Village is an icon of the city, offering a luxurious escape in a historical setting. This boutique hotel is set within a collection of beautifully restored wooden houses, each decorated with traditional Thai furnishings. This is an intimate property that draws you into the heart of Thailand, with lush courtyards to enjoy and a tranquil pool. A more peaceful oasis in the city you’d be hard pushed to find. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to an afternoon in the acclaimed Village Spa, which uses herbs and techniques from the Lanna Thai tradition of healing. Try the Traditional Thai Massage with Lak Pra Kob, pouches of aromatic herbs which include lemongrass, tamarind leaves and kaffir lime. For your final immersion into traditional Lanna heritage, the on-site Ruen Restaurant specialises in home cooked Northern Thai cuisine; feast on the Gaeng ped yang lychee (Roasted duck and lychee in red curry) and thank us later.
5. Raya Heritage
Located 4km from Chiang Mai in the heart of the countryside, Raya Heritage is an unforgettable stay with river views surrounded by dense rainforest. The hotel itself is an elegant fusion of traditional Lanna heritage with modern minimalism. Huge bamboo lights are suspended from the ceiling in the wood-covered dining room and the outdoor pool overlooks the Ping River. It’s a stylish, aesthetic hotel, with red tiled courtyards to wander, flanked by huge palm trees, giant white columns and surrounded by rainforest. The modern rooms are meticulously designed, with linen textiles and luxurious beds. We highly recommend the Pool Suites, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open out onto your own private pool. Free shuttle buses can take you into Chiang Mai centre, which is only a short drive away. After a day of exploring the city, unwind in the impossibly serene spa; the treatment rooms are straight out of a Pinterest board, with white stone walls, white washed wood and stone coloured textiles. Raya is a beautiful sanctuary, the perfect blend of Old Siam charm and sophistication.
6. Shamrock Chiangmai Hotel
Situated in the heart of Old Town, the Shamrock Chiang Mai hotel is a 5* retreat in the middle of the action. Beautifully modern, stylish rooms await you here, with sage-green wood panelling, teakwood rattan furniture and metro-tile covered bathrooms. Understated luxury is the name of the game here, with a team of warm, friendly staff ready to help you make the most of your visit. Tours, rides and cruises can be arranged for you, while you dine in the charming bistro restaurant or cool off in the central pool. The location couldn’t be more perfect, and there aren’t many hotels of this quality in the heart of Old Town. Waking up in the impossibly comfortable beds, stepping out onto your terrace and hearing the bustle of Chiang Mai waking up around you is a special moment.
7. Melia Chiang Mai
Located 1.2km from the heart of Old Town, Melia Chiang Mai offers sleek, contemporary luxury with touches of Thai design. The rooms are modern, light-filled and spacious, offering views over the city of Chiang Mai and into the mountains beyond. Enjoy afternoon tea and cocktails at the lounge, or cool off in the rooftop pool after a morning of temple hopping and street market shopping. The pool is especially beautiful at night, with the lush greenery illuminated by soft, ambient lighting. Sit on a shaded lounger or enjoy a cocktail in your own pagoda. The Melia is a haven from the bustling city outside – the night markets are close by here – and they provide everything you need to unwind in luxurious comfort.
8. Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai
Located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai, this oasis-like retreat is a bona-fide sanctuary surrounded by lush gardens and picturesque mountains. Each spacious suite is thoughtfully designed with modern furnishings, private balconies and touches of Lanna heritage and design. The award-winning spa only uses products with ingredients from local, organic farms; a must-try is the Four Elements balancing ritual that aims to use the four elements of earth, air, fire and water to bring your body and soul into alignment. Their Garden Restaurant is renowned for its nourishing dishes using farm-fresh ingredients and for those who need some blood-pumping activities, guided treks, cultural tours and yoga sessions can all be arranged. This is the place to unwind and soak in the lush, tropical landscape of Northern Thailand. Chiang Mai is a shuttle ride away, should the bustling city call you.
Things to Do
Things to Do
